New Canadian Legislation Introduces Strong Protections against Counterfeit Goods

6 March 2013

The following article contains excerpts from a press release issued by the Canadian government on March 1, 2013.

The Government of Canada has announced new protections to safeguard Canadian consumers, manufacturers and retailers as well as the national economy from the health and economic threats posed by counterfeit goods entering the country. The retail value of counterfeit goods seized by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police increased from $7.6 million in 2005 to more than $38 million in 2012.

The “Combating Counterfeit Products Act” will authorize the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to take action against the commercial movement of counterfeit goods at the border by detaining suspected shipments and contacting the rights holders. It will also include new criminal offences for the commercial possession, manufacture or trafficking of counterfeit trademark goods and provide better tools to investigate commercial counterfeiting.

Canadian businesses seeking protection may file a request for assistance with the CBSA, enabling border officers to share information with them regarding suspect shipments.

“Our Government is standing up for Canadian consumers and businesses, ensuring they do not fall victim to trademark counterfeiting. In today's global marketplace, we need strong, modern rules to protect our economy and the health and safety of Canadians and their families,” said Minister of Industry, Christian Paradis. “Counterfeit products hurt our economy, undermine innovation, threaten jobs and expose consumers and their families to unsafe products.”

More information can be found in the FAQs listed on the Industry Canada website.